Derek Wells, 24, of Spencer, passed away Friday at an Indianapolis medical facility from injuries sustained in this two-vehicle, head-on crash the day before on rural Texas Pike. According to police, Wells’ southbound 1990 Honda Accord had been left of center when it came into contact with a northbound 2000 Ford F-350 Super Duty pickup truck. (SEW File Photo)
A two-vehicle, head-on crash on October 7 later claimed the life of a 24-year-old Spencer man.

Derek Lee Wells, a mechanic for Great Dane Trailers, passed away on October 8 at an Indianapolis medical facility from injuries sustained in the mid-afternoon crash on rural Texas Pike, less than two miles north of State Road 46 West.

According to information provided by investigating officer Clint Wampler of the Owen County Sheriff ’s Department, Wells’ southbound 1990 Honda Accord had been left of center when it collided shortly before 3:30 p.m. with a northbound 2000 Ford F-350 Super Duty pickup truck, operated by 17-year-old Maxwell Hinchman, also of Spencer.

Hinchman was uninjured, while Wells was initially airlifted to Wishard Hospital for treatment of serious facial, leg and internal injuries.

Emergency units on the scene included the OCSD, Indiana State Police, Owen County EMS and Rescue Team, and the Owen Valley Volunteer Fire Department.

A native of Beech Grove, a celebration of Wells’ life will be held today, Wednesday, at 4:00 p.m., with visitation from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at Little and Sons Funeral Home, Beech Grove Chapel. After the service, a gathering will be held at Beech Grove Park.